As I sifted through memories of past Italian dinners, the thought of creamy mascarpone and bold coffee whisked me away to a cozy café in Rome. This inspired me to craft Tiramisu cookies, a delightful twist on the classic dessert that’s not only a cinch to make but also perfect for sharing with friends and family during cozy get-togethers. These quick and easy treats bring a taste of Italy to your home, combining the rich flavors of coffee with a soft, velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to impress your loved ones with a fun dessert, these Tiramisu cookies promise a sprinkle of joy in every bite. Are you ready to elevate your cookie game? Let’s get started!
Why are Tiramisu Cookies a must-try?
Indulgent flavors: The delightful pairing of rich coffee and smooth mascarpone creates a taste that will transport you straight to Italy.
Quick preparation: These cookies come together in no time, making them perfect for a last-minute gathering or a cozy evening treat.
Shareable bliss: Great for sharing, these cookies are sure to impress friends and family at any gathering. Pair them with a cup of espresso for the ultimate experience!
Versatile variations: Feel free to switch it up by adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. You can also check out my Panko Cookies Chewy for another delightful twist!
With their soft texture and creamy filling, you’ll find it hard to resist sneaking one (or two) before serving!
Tiramisu Cookies Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – The foundation for structure; mix well with dry ingredients for best results.
- Baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to create light, airy cookies.
- Salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; reduce if using salted butter.
- Unsalted butter – Provides a soft, creamy texture; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Sugar – Sweetens the cookies beautifully; opt for white sugar for the best flavor.
- Large eggs – Adds moisture and helps bind the ingredients; whisk well before adding.
- Vanilla extract – Infuses a warm, aromatic flavor; use pure extract for optimal taste.
- Instant coffee granules – Delivers that signature coffee essence essential to Tiramisu cookies; dissolve in hot water.
- Hot water – Necessary for dissolving coffee granules; avoid cold water as it won’t work effectively.
For the Filling
- Mascarpone cheese – The key component for a creamy filling; enhances the dessert-like quality.
- Whipped cream – Adds lightness and extra creaminess; fold gently to keep it fluffy.
- Coffee liqueur (optional) – Introduces complex flavors; can be omitted for a kid-friendly version.
For Dusting
- Cocoa powder – A finishing touch that adds depth and presents beautifully; sprinkle generously before serving.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tiramisu cookies
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). While it warms up, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent the Tiramisu cookies from sticking. This ensures a clean release after baking, allowing for perfectly shaped cookies that are easy to handle.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. This step is crucial for creating a uniform structure in your Tiramisu cookies. Set this mixture aside to let the baking powder activate as you move on to the next steps.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar. Beat for about 3-5 minutes or until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, signaling that the sugar has begun to dissolve and incorporate air. This step adds a delightful texture to your cookies.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugar are creamed, add the large eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract, and continue mixing until everything is fully integrated. The batter should appear smooth and slightly airy, showcasing the warm, inviting scent of vanilla.
Step 5: Dissolve Coffee Granules
In a small bowl, combine the instant coffee granules with hot water, stirring until the granules are completely dissolved. This is key for infusing the characteristic coffee flavor into your Tiramisu cookies. Once mixed, allow it to cool slightly before incorporating it into your cookie dough.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dissolved coffee mixture to your creamed butter and sugar, combining thoroughly. Then, slowly add the dry ingredient mixture from Step 2, folding it into the wet ingredients carefully until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to retain the airiness of your dough for soft cookies.
Step 7: Shape the Cookies
Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of the cookie dough onto your prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each mound for spreading. Aim for about 2 inches apart. The dough should still be soft and slightly sticky, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth texture in the finished Tiramisu cookies.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the Tiramisu cookies for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they should turn lightly golden around the edges but remain soft in the center. This ensures that magical, chewy texture reminiscent of traditional Tiramisu.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing them to cool fully is essential for maintaining their structure, making them ideal for filling later on.
Step 10: Prepare the Filling
While the cookies cool, prepare the filling by beating together the mascarpone cheese and whipped cream in a mixing bowl. If desired, stir in coffee liqueur to elevate the flavor. Mix gently until combined and fluffy, ensuring your filling retains its light and airy texture for delicious Tiramisu cookies.
Step 11: Assemble the Cookies
Take one cooled Tiramisu cookie and spread a generous amount of the creamy filling on its flat side. Top it with another cookie, pressing down gently to create a sandwich. Repeat this process until all cookies are filled, creating delightful treats that are both visually appealing and delicious.
Step 12: Dust with Cocoa Powder
Finish off your Tiramisu cookies by dusting them generously with cocoa powder using a fine sieve or sifter. This not only adds a beautiful presentation but also enhances the rich flavors of coffee and cream. The final touch of cocoa creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
Make Ahead Options
These Tiramisu cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeks! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain freshness and refrigerate. Additionally, the cookies can be baked ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature. For the creamy filling, mix the mascarpone and whipped cream up to 2 days ahead, storing it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just assemble the cookies with the filling and dust with cocoa powder for that authentic Tiramisu touch—ensuring they taste just as delicious as when freshly made!
Tiramisu Cookies Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these Tiramisu cookies! The possibilities are endless, inviting you to indulge your taste buds in unique ways.
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Cheesecake Twist: Replace mascarpone with cream cheese for a tangy twist. It’ll give your cookies a rich, slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee.
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Almond Flour: Swap out all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free version. The nuttiness will add an interesting depth to your cookies, making them even more delightful!
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm, cozy touch. This spice infusion creates a lovely aroma reminiscent of a homemade spiced coffee.
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips to the dough for an extra layer of sweetness. The gooey chocolate perfectly harmonizes with the creamy filling! Check out my Cheesecake Stuffed Cookies for yet another amazing twist.
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Nutty Crunch: Incorporate chopped hazelnuts or walnuts into the dough. This not only adds wonderful texture but also brings out that classic Italian flavor profile reminiscent of traditional Tiramisu.
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Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of mascarpone for a luscious, dairy-free alternative. The coconut flavor offers a tropical twist that complements the coffee perfectly.
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Herbal Infusion: Exchange the coffee liqueur with a splash of hazelnut syrup for a different flavor dimension that’ll surprise and delight your taste testers.
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Extra Rich: For an indulgent treat, drizzle a bit of melted dark chocolate over the filled cookies. This luxurious touch will elevate your Tiramisu cookies to a whole new level of decadence.
Feel free to blend and match these variations, and don’t hesitate to get inspired! With every tweak, you’ll discover a new favorite version of these delicious treats. Happy baking!
What to Serve with Tiramisu Cookies
As you indulge in the creamy delight of Tiramisu cookies, imaginative pairings can elevate your dessert experience to new heights.
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Rich Espresso: The bold flavors of a freshly brewed espresso will perfectly complement the coffee essence in your cookies, enhancing every bite.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess of vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm, coffee-infused treat, making each mouthful utterly blissful.
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Chocolate Fondue: For dipping, a luscious chocolate fondue makes an interactive dessert option that works beautifully with the flavors of Tiramisu.
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Homemade Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream can lighten the richness and create an invitingly soft texture when served alongside the cookies.
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Biscotti: Pair your Tiramisu cookies with crunchy biscotti for a delightful texture contrast and an authentic Italian touch.
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Hazelnut Liquer: For an indulgent adult twist, serve your cookies with a splash of hazelnut liqueur that echoes the flavors of Tiramisu and adds warmth.
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Almond Biscotti Tea: Brew a cup of almond biscotti tea for a cozy afternoon treat. The nutty aroma melds well with the coffee notes of the cookies.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of fresh berries adds a bright, refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweet, creamy elements of your Tiramisu cookies perfectly.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The marriage of rich chocolate and sweet strawberries brings an elegant touch to your dessert table when paired with Tiramisu cookies.
Expert Tips for Tiramisu Cookies
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Use Room Temperature Butter: Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar, resulting in the perfect texture for your Tiramisu cookies.
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Don’t Overmix Dough: Gently fold dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined; overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture you want.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool completely before filling. This step preserves their structure and prevents the filling from becoming too runny.
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Adjust Cocoa Dusting: For a rich chocolate flavor, don’t skimp on the cocoa powder dusting; it beautifully complements the flavors of the Tiramisu cookies.
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Experiment with Variations: Feel free to add ingredients like chocolate chips or nuts for a delicious twist on your Tiramisu cookies—customization is key!
Storage Tips for Tiramisu Cookies
Room Temperature: Keep your Tiramisu cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their softness and freshness.
Fridge: If you want to enjoy them for a longer period, store the cookies in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure they’re in an airtight container to prevent drying.
Freezer: For extended storage, you can freeze the filled Tiramisu cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them individually or place them in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When ready to serve, thaw the cookies in the refrigerator overnight or warm them briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy that soft, delightful texture again.
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of coffee should I use for the Tiramisu cookies?
For the best results, I recommend using instant coffee granules, as they dissolve easily in hot water and provide that bold coffee flavor essential to Tiramisu cookies. If you prefer a lighter taste, feel free to adjust the quantity used!
How should I store Tiramisu cookies to keep them fresh?
Store your Tiramisu cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend their shelf life, you can refrigerate them for up to a week. Just make sure the container is airtight to prevent them from drying out.
Can I freeze Tiramisu cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze Tiramisu cookies, wrap each filled cookie individually in plastic wrap or place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the cookies in the refrigerator overnight or warm them gently in the microwave for a few seconds.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky and difficult to shape, I often recommend chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to scoop and shape without compromising the soft texture of your Tiramisu cookies.
Are Tiramisu cookies safe for pets or those with allergies?
Tiramisu cookies contain ingredients like vanilla extract and sugar, which aren’t good for pets. Additionally, they include eggs and dairy, which can be allergenic. Always check with friends or family members about any dietary restrictions before serving these cookies to ensure everyone can enjoy them safely.
Can I use different types of flour for the Tiramisu cookies?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour! For a gluten-free option, you could try almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Keep in mind that this can slightly change the texture and flavor, so adjustments may be necessary to maintain that classic cookie feel.
Tiramisu Cookies Recipe FAQs
Indulge in Easy Tiramisu Cookies for Coffee Lovers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl and set aside.
- Cream softened unsalted butter and sugar together in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy.
- Add the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine the instant coffee granules with hot water in a small bowl and allow to cool slightly.
- Gradually mix the dissolved coffee into the creamed butter and sugar, then fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.
- Drop rounded portions of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, until lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Beat together the mascarpone cheese and whipped cream, mixing in coffee liqueur if desired, until fluffy.
- Spread filling on the flat side of one cookie, sandwich with another cookie, and repeat until filled.
- Dust the finished cookies with cocoa powder before serving.